France's Protest Day Ends in Violence and Looting
France faced unprecedented violence and looting during nationwide protests, with 150 police officers injured and around 1,200 people arrested. Prime Minister Sébastien Lecornu condemned the "appalling level of violence" following the demonstrations against high living costs. Rioters set fire to the historic town hall in Limoges, causing extensive damage, while attacks occurred in Marseille, Lyon, and other cities. Authorities blamed a "very well-organized" far-left group for the unrest, with President Emmanuel Macron vowing criminal prosecution for those involved. An estimated 550,000 people participated in the protests, which also addressed fuel prices, wages, and agricultural issues. A 17-year-old reportedly lost a hand to a police grenade in Saint-Étienne. The unrest has raised fears of a new "Yellow Vest" movement ahead of next year's presidential election.